The biggest problem for me is tight calves while running. They tighten up after a few seconds and then it's hard to run & impossible to do a brisk walk.
I've been very good doing both pre and post excercise stretches so any further tips would be welcome. I also do strength training 3 x per week, which has helped in general. Not sure what else I can do for my cakves...
Well done on getting through week 3!! If you are warming up before going out the door then doing the 5 min warm up plus your post run stretches, the next two things to consider are … are your leggings & socks warm enough…. are you running too fast? If both those are good then perhaps a bit of rolling using a foam roller may help you. When I initially started C25K I had the same problem & was given the roller advice & never looked back! Week 1-3 have prepared you for week 4. Take it slowly, enjoy the challenge & remember you can repeat any run if you need to.. we all have runs that we call practice runs & then need to repeat. You have done very well getting to this point! Enjoy the next challenge!
The reason for tightness is because you are exercising previously not so active muscles. Another reason could be flat feet and perhaps not so perfect shoes (that's where gait analysis comes in handy). The way to get them more flexible is patience through correct exercise - ideally you'd have a physio tell you exactly what's best for you but you can also YouTube it and find out what suits you best. And whatever you do, do it gently or else you can aggravate the issue.
Concerning the calf pain, in addition to the useful suggestions already made, how's your hydration? If I don't drink enough water, my calves always let me know!
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